TV films downplay role of women

It has been more than a century since Kartini struggled to liberate women. Has it changed the public's basic outlook on the female image? If we were to attentively follow TV stories presented to viewers, we would notice that most themes center on family life. But TV film producers seem to have failed in noticing a phenomenon that has taken place in society. Women have taken center stage as achievers.

TV films are still projecting a stereotypical image of women. We often see women portrayed as the bad mother-in-law, or as the stubborn, power-hungry female. The benign female image is epitomized by the capable housewife who obeys her husband. Another familiar portrait, often shown in TV films, is the female in an alluring, sexual role.

The working woman who contributes to the family's economic welfare is often made to look like an irresponsible spouse.

There are many attractive themes that could present women in more positive and better roles. For instance, the ingenious woman, who is independently able to make decisions. A variety of roles could be produced in a wider range.

Positive characteristics should be stressed in the plots of today's TV stories. Do not worry if viewers' interest would decrease first because of this change. Viewers are bound to return due to the glut of TV films being produced. Do not forget, viewers are comprised of mostly women!

LIM SING MEY

Jakarta